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Last Name Imes

What is the origin of the last name Imes?

The surname "Imes" is of English origin. It is a variant spelling of "I'Anson" or "Ianson," which is derived from the personal name "John." The "I" represents "Iohannes," the Latin form of "John," and "Anson" is a diminutive of "Anthony." Over time, the name evolved to its current form "Imes." It is worth noting that surnames often undergo changes in spelling and pronunciation throughout history.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Imes

The meaning and origin of the last name Imes

The surname Imes is of English origin, derived from the medieval given name "Im," itself a diminutive of Ing, a compound of "Ingwi" meaning "Ing's island" and "Ingva", meaning "Ing's field". The name "Ing" is associated with the god Ing, a deity believed to have represented the heroism and fertility of the early English. Over time, this given name evolved into the surname Imes. The Imes family name is primarily found in Yorkshire, England, and is thought to have its roots in the ancient Anglo-Saxon culture. The Imes surname gained prominence during the Middle Ages and has been passed down through generations, with bearers of the name recorded in historical documents, census records, and genealogical sources. Today, individuals with the surname Imes can be found not only in England but also in various parts of the world due to migration and globalization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Imes

The last name Imes is not widely distributed geographically and has limited prevalence. It can primarily be found within the United States, particularly in the southern states. Some concentration of individuals with the surname Imes can be found in Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. As a less common surname, it is important to note that the distribution of Imes may not be extensive even within these states. The name is less prevalent in other parts of the United States and is uncommonly found outside the country. Interestingly, the name Imes is also occasionally found in Canada and the United Kingdom, albeit in small numbers. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Imes is relatively limited, with a predominant concentration within the southern United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Imes

The last name "Imes" may have several variations and spellings, which can be attributed to different factors such as regional dialects, immigration patterns, or personal preferences. Some possible variations and spellings of the surname "Imes" include "Ims," "Immes," "Ime," "Imess," "Ymes," and "Ymms." These variations can be found in various historical records, and they may be influenced by cultural and linguistic differences. For instance, individuals with German or Dutch origins might have spelled the name as "Eimes" or "Eymes," while those with English or Irish roots could have used variations like "Imms" or "Ime." Additionally, transcriptions or errors in official documents could further contribute to variations in spelling. It is important to consider these various alternatives when researching or tracing genealogical connections for individuals with the last name "Imes."

Famous people with the last name Imes

There are a few famous individuals with the last name Imes who have made notable contributions in their respective fields. One such figure is Al Imes, a former American professional football player. Imes played as an offensive guard and tackle in the National Football League (NFL) during the 1960s and 1970s. He was a key member of the Washington Redskins and was renowned for his toughness and versatility. Another well-known personality is Marimba Ani Imes-Jackson, an African-American anthropologist and scholar. Imes-Jackson is highly respected for her significant contributions to the study of African societies, diaspora, and culture. She is best known for her book "Yurugu: An African-centered Critique of European Cultural Thought and Behavior," which challenges Eurocentric ideologies. These illustrious individuals with the surname Imes have left a lasting impact on their respective fields and continue to be remembered for their achievements.

Genealogical research on the last name Imes

The Imes surname is of English origin and dates back to the medieval times. The name is derived from the given name "Im" or "Ime," which was a short form of the popular Norman name Aimeri or Almeric. The Imes family can be traced back to the county of Yorkshire in northern England, where they were agricultural landowners and farmers. Over time, some members of the Imes clan migrated to other parts of England, including London and the neighboring counties. In the late 17th and 18th centuries, some Imes individuals ventured overseas, with records indicating Imes immigrants settling in the United States, particularly in the states of Virginia and North Carolina. Today, the Imes surname continues to be found in various countries, and individuals bearing this name can be found engaged in a range of professions and industries.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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